Citrus Heights Police Dept. Holiday Gift Referral Program

CITRUS HEIGHTS, CA (MPG) - The Citrus Heights Police Department’s Holiday Referral Program was a huge success again this year.  The program was made possible because of the outpouring of community support and volunteerism within our City.  This year 21 families were chosen by a selection committee made up of local community members. Families were then presented with an amazing amount of gifts and all the items needed to provide a full holiday meal during our annual holiday delivery convoy. 

All donated toys, blankets, food, clothing, and money were made possible by the generosity of over 75 donors, including our local businesses, local service clubs, volunteers and City of Citrus Heights Employees and community members.

Nearly 150 community members consisting of 62 kids and 35 adults were served by this wonderful program.  Hot meals and toys were also provided to 40 additional children who were at the Sayonara Center. 

The convoy delivered to four incredibly deserving families who have faced unexpected hardships. Among those chosen, was a single parent of a four year old, who escaped domestic violence and chose the Citrus Heights community as their new home and place for a fresh start; A fireman, supporting a family of four, whose career was quickly eliminated after being hit by an unlicensed, uninsured, drunk driver while off duty; A newborn baby mauled by the family dog who is being raised by a single parent, unable to work fulltime and provide the necessary care for the newborn’s injuries; and lastly, a family of six, provided for by two young sisters, who grew up in the Sayonara Center as children, and currently volunteer at the Sayonara Center and give back to the community that provided for them.

The Holiday Referral Program is funded by and made possible because of the generosity and the caring, kind-spirit of the entire Citrus Heights Community.  We are extremely grateful for the partnerships, friendships and unwavering support of the Citrus Heights Community and sincerely thank everyone who made this year’s Holiday Referral Program a wonderful success.